SDF
VISA
Bhutan has a policy of charging a daily Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for all tourists visiting the country. The amount charged and the reasons for this fee are as follows:
All travelers require a valid tourist visa before entering Bhutan, except passport holders from India, Maldives and Bangladesh. The Bhutanese visa process is unique in that embassies and consulates cannot issue visas. Instead, visas must be arranged through a local tour company or directly via the Department of Immigration by paying the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) and visa fee. The SDF is USD 100 per night per person. A one time visa fee of USD 40 per person is also required. You will have to pay SDF and visa fee in advance for visa approval. The validity of your Bhutan visa corresponds with the length of the trip. Extension of visa is possible after arrival in Bhutan.
You must present your e-Visa at your departure airport to board your flight to Bhutan. Keep a copy (printed or digital) as boarding is not permitted without it. The actual visa will be stamped on your passport upon arrival at Paro International Airport. Your passport should have at least six months validity.
Additional permits are required for travel within Bhutan, such as a route permit for intercity travel and a special permit for trekking in restricted northern regions. We can handle these for you.
Reasons for the Sustainable Development Fee:
Environmental Protection: Bhutan is known for its commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability. The SDF helps fund various initiatives aimed at preserving the country’s pristine environment, biodiversity, and natural resources.
Cultural Preservation: Bhutan takes great pride in its cultural heritage and traditions. The revenue generated from the SDF is used to support the preservation of Bhutanese culture, including the maintenance of historical sites, festivals, and traditional arts.
Tourism Management: By controlling the flow of tourists through a regulated pricing system, Bhutan aims to promote sustainable tourism that minimizes the impact on the environment and local communities. The SDF helps in managing the number of visitors to protect Bhutan’s unique culture and environment.
Social Development: A portion of the SDF also goes towards funding social welfare programs, such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure development, to improve the quality of life for Bhutanese citizens.
Overall, the Sustainable Development Fee plays a crucial role in supporting Bhutan’s overarching goal of prioritizing sustainable development while preserving its natural and cultural heritage. It ensures that tourism in the country contributes positively to the well-being of both the environment and the local population. Contact us
Cultural Preservation: Bhutan takes great pride in its cultural heritage and traditions. The revenue generated from the SDF is used to support the preservation of Bhutanese culture, including the maintenance of historical sites, festivals, and traditional arts.
Tourism Management: By controlling the flow of tourists through a regulated pricing system, Bhutan aims to promote sustainable tourism that minimizes the impact on the environment and local communities. The SDF helps in managing the number of visitors to protect Bhutan’s unique culture and environment.
Social Development: A portion of the SDF also goes towards funding social welfare programs, such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure development, to improve the quality of life for Bhutanese citizens.
Overall, the Sustainable Development Fee plays a crucial role in supporting Bhutan’s overarching goal of prioritizing sustainable development while preserving its natural and cultural heritage. It ensures that tourism in the country contributes positively to the well-being of both the environment and the local population. Contact us